Israeli Authorities Uncover Extensive Weapons Network in Kafr Kanna, Charge 11 Suspects

Israeli security forces have exposed a large-scale weapons network in the Arab town of Kafr Kanna in northern Israel, resulting in indictments against 11 individuals for possession and trafficking of firearms with security implications. The investigation began with a focused Shin Bet and Northern District Police inquiry, culminating in a raid on the home of Muhammad Amara, who was suspected of holding weapons for hostile purposes. During the search, an air rifle and other evidence linked Muhammad and his son Saeed Amara to illegal arms offenses, leading to their arrest.

Further investigation over about a month uncovered seven different firearms held by various suspects across the village. Muhammad Amara was found to have acquired assault rifles resembling an M16, a Kalashnikov, and a Galil rifle. The weapons were reportedly transported to a local resident, Basel Moktarn, who repaired firearms and surrendered the Galil rifle to authorities following the arrests.

The indictments, filed by the Northern District Prosecutor's Office, reveal sophisticated attempts to conceal and relocate weapons to avoid detection. Muhammad instructed his son to hide firearms outside their home, with Saeed collaborating with Ahmad Manzel and others to stash rifles in multiple locations. After the Amaras’ arrest, Manzel and another suspect moved weapons into a drawer in the home of a medically vulnerable resident to mislead security forces, but the weapons were ultimately seized.

Digital evidence also emerged, including photos of a minor son of Muhammad holding an M16 rifle at home. The 11 suspects face charges including illegal arms purchase, possession, transportation, trafficking, and obstruction of justice. Israeli police and Shin Bet emphasized their commitment to preventing any civilian involvement in hostile activities and illegal arms possession, vowing to continue rigorous enforcement to protect public security and hold offenders accountable.